The blasting process in surface mines involves extremely complex interactions. Utilizing Finite Element (FE) analysis, the affect of rock mass properties and discontinuity data can be fairly idealized and assessed. The purpose of this paper is to present the application of finite element methods to fragmentation due to blasting in surface mining operations. As a result, the prediction and extent of blasting will help the engineers engaged in surface mining and construction operations to use explosives efficiently.

Evaluating the effect of rock parameters on surface mine blasting by finite element analysis

Application of modified rock-mass classification systems to blasting assesment in surface mining operations

It is now an established fact that rock properties and presence of geological discontinuities affect rock blasting to a great extent. An attempt has been made in this paper to discuss the influence of various physical and mechanical properties of rock and geological planes of weakness on blasting. Strong elastic rocks require explosives capable of developing higher peak strains whereas explosives of lower energy perform better in softer rocks. Suitable orientations of blast patterns with respect to major planes of weakness are described. Various methods of determining the blastability of rocks are discussed. (a) (TRRL)

D P Appah

Papers

Influence of physico-mechanical properties and geological discontinuities on rock blasting